I have a daughter who is 15. She has some small fillings (not sure how many). She has had braces for about 4 yrs. She is showing some signs of hormonal imbalance - perhaps due to the metals? I am concerned about polycystic ovarian syndrome. I don't want to mess up her teeth by having the braces removed early (this orthodontist takes forever!), however, I will, if it will mean improvement in her hormone status. Is it possible to get a retainer made without metal or the pink, mercury-caused colour? <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" /> Has anyone dealt with this type of situation?

I think these days you can get non-metal braces, but it might mean searching for an alternative orthodontist.

I had braces and fillings and I was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome recently after years of irregular periods (which got worse since root filling). My friend had braces and also has irregular periods.

I don't have the cysts, though, at least I didn't at least scan. The name is somewhat of a misnomer as it's thought to be the underlying problem that causes the cysts, not the cysts the problem. Some people say the problem is insulin resistance, so lowering carbs in a diet can help, but lack of menstruation etc can also be a symptom of toxicity as mercury and metals interfere with hormones.

I'm hoping that my probem might improve with the replacement fillings, unless I really do have the condition which is not impossible as diabetes is very strong in my family.

Good question. I'd like to know about that too as my 13 year old keeps wanting to get her braces, but I keep putting it off. What about the other colors in the retainers? Are they bad also? I guess you can get clear if you ask.